PROVINCE : : 1 Thailand map, 4 regions, 18 zones, 76 provinces e.g. ChiangMai, Loei, KanchanaBuri, Ayuthaya, Sukhothai, MaeHongSon etc
BANGKOK : : 4 Bangkok maps, 12 zones, 7 spot maps e.g. Old City, Dusit, Chinatown, Downtown, ThonBuri, Sukhumvit, KhlongBangkok etc
GOLF : : 1 Thailand map and 7 golf zone maps e.g. around Bangkok, ChiangMai, KhaoYai, KanchanaBuri, Pattaya, HuaHin, Phuket
SEA : : 1 Thailand map, 5 zones, 19 provincial coasts , 33 beaches & islands e.g. Krabi, PhangNga, Phuket, Pattaya, Trat,
Ko Samui, Ko PhaNgan, Ko Surin, Ko Similan, Ko Chang, Ko Samet, Ko PhiPhi, Snorkelling, Scuba Diving etc
More Maps available on : http://www.athailand.com/
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Thailand Suwannabhumi airport is now open
Bangkok - Anti-government demonstrators agreed on Tuesday to allow flights to resume from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi international airport after a week-long blockade, a protest leader said.
"As of this moment the PAD (People's Alliance for Democracy) has allowed flights to take off and land immediately, both passenger and cargo flights," senior alliance member Somkiat Pongpaiboon said.
The PAD occupied Suvarnabhumi and the smaller Don Mueang domestic airport last week, stranding 350 000 passengers and causing massive damage to the Thai economy. - Sapa-AFP
Monday, July 7, 2008
PHRA THAT DOI TUNG
Today you will see the popular travel destination in thailand.
The Phra That Doi Tung stupa was constructed on a mountain peak called Doi Tung in 911 A.D (1454 B.E.) and is considered to be one of the oldest and most sacred of the Northern Thai kingdom known as Lanna.
The stupa enshrines the collar-bone of Lord Buddha, known as Phra That in Thai, and thus is a sacred religious monument deeply revered by Buddhist followers throughout Thailand, Myanmar and Laos.
The word ‘tung’ refers to a vertical flag or banner used to mark the boundary of sacred sites and religious structures such as temples and shrines. Hence the origins of its name, Phra That Doi Tung – the stupa on flag mountain.
It is believed that the existing route that leads to the stupa follows the same path taken by the Lord Buddha as he made his journey through the countryside to preach to his disciples and followers. The road passes by the Wat Noi Doi Tung temple and Tepparak Garden, believed to be the abode of angels and celestial beings that guard the holy shrine of Phra That Doi Tung. The Phra That Doi Tung is a distance of 7 km from the Royal Villa on the old route and 12 km along the new route.
The stupa enshrines the collar-bone of Lord Buddha, known as Phra That in Thai, and thus is a sacred religious monument deeply revered by Buddhist followers throughout Thailand, Myanmar and Laos.
The word ‘tung’ refers to a vertical flag or banner used to mark the boundary of sacred sites and religious structures such as temples and shrines. Hence the origins of its name, Phra That Doi Tung – the stupa on flag mountain.
It is believed that the existing route that leads to the stupa follows the same path taken by the Lord Buddha as he made his journey through the countryside to preach to his disciples and followers. The road passes by the Wat Noi Doi Tung temple and Tepparak Garden, believed to be the abode of angels and celestial beings that guard the holy shrine of Phra That Doi Tung. The Phra That Doi Tung is a distance of 7 km from the Royal Villa on the old route and 12 km along the new route.
Friday, June 6, 2008
About Korat
Korat 
Though in modern times it is a developed industrial town, there is much to see of historical interest nearby.
Twin Towns
During Ayutthaya’s prominence, two towns united to form Nakorn Ratchasima, commonly known as Korat. Now a busy industrial city, it shares many of Bangkok’s features, both good (nightlife and bazaars) and bad (pollution). If you are coming from Bangkok and desire peace and quiet, nearby Phimai is a good base from which to visit Korat during the day.
US Vets Cafeteria
There was an American air base near Korat during the Vietnam War, and you can still visit the Veterans of Foreign wars Cafeteria on Phoklang Road. Some ex-GIs have since settled here.
Historical Monuments
Appealing temples include Wat Sala Loi, with its junk-shaped chapel, and Wat Phra Narai Maharat, which houses Korat’s city pillar and a Khmer statue of Vishnu. Mahawirawong National Museum houses more Khmer stonework and other artifacts. Also interesting is the Thao Suranani Memorial, which honors a Thai woman who, with her citizens’ army, expelled Lao aggressors in the early 1800s. Locals make offerings to her spirit for protection, and traditional Korat folk singing (financed by grateful worshippers) is a nightly event opposite the memorial. Thao Suranani also has her own festival; Korat’s biggest, from late March to early April. This involves folk singing, drama (Li-Kay), parades and beauty pageants.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Doi Suthep
I found this article and want you read it
When you reach this Holy Buddhist place, the first thing you will notice is business (left hand side picture), as usual everywhere in Thailand. To reach the Temple of Doi Suthep, climb the stairs (see the right hand side picture) for the best experience.
There has been a kind of rail-elevator, that has been closed down after an accident. It was not in operation in 2004. I do not know if this elevator has been re-opened ever since. There are about 300 steps to climb. The reward is more than worth the effort. You will see a beautiful Buddhist Temple and you will experience a beautiful view. While climbing the stairs, you should pay attention to the giant dragons on the sides of the stairs (they appear already downstairs; see the right hand side picture).
How was the spot for this Temple chosen? When the Temple was being planned, about 600 years ago, the Buddha relics, to put inside the Chedi of the Temple, were put on the back of an elephant. At the spot where this elephant would stop, the Temple was going to be built. The elephant stopped at the spot where the Temple has been built, which is not the top of the mountain, but roughly just halfway the mountain.
When arriving at the top of the stairs, you will see the outer buildings first. The Temple is walled. There will still be some business in this area outside the wall (food and souvenir sellers). The left hand side picture shows one of the entrances top the walled Temple. One of the things you will notice, still in the outside area, are the many Temple bells (rakhang in Thai). Ring them if you like.
Then you should prepare to enter the Holy area trough one of the entrances, shown higher on this page. As usual, you will have to take off your shoes. The giant Chedi, covered with gold, is the dominant sight inside. It contains the Buddha relics. Wat Prathat Doi Suthep dates back from the fourteenth century. It is one of the most important remains of the Lanna culture in Thailand. 
The Lanna Kingdom was a Kingdom in the North of Thailand, at about the same time as the Kingdom of Ayutthaya was in charge of Central Thailand.
The chedi is surrounded by four golden "umbrella's", one of which can be seen on the picture. They seem to have a function, similar to the "corner stones" that you find around ever Buddhist Temple (Wat) in Thailand.
The Lanna Kingdom was a Kingdom in the North of Thailand, at about the same time as the Kingdom of Ayutthaya was in charge of Central Thailand.
The chedi is surrounded by four golden "umbrella's", one of which can be seen on the picture. They seem to have a function, similar to the "corner stones" that you find around ever Buddhist Temple (Wat) in Thailand.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Ayutthaya Province
Ayutthaya is one of the most popular province near Bangkok. I recommend you to go to...
Monuments in the area of Historical Park
The Royal Palace
when King Boroma-Tri-Loka-Nat ascended the throne in 1448, he built Wat Phra Sri Sanphet on the site of the old building, and erected a new residence nearer the river.
* Suriyat Amarindra Buliding was built by King Narai the Great on the site of the Bencharatana Building of King Borom-tri-loka-nat, near the compound wall by the river side.
* Sanphet-Prasat Building was built by King Boroma-Tri-Loka-Nat used for the reception in of guests of State.
* Wihara Somdet Building was constructed by the command of King Prasat Thong in 1643 to replace the Mangkalaphisek Building, which built by King Boroma-Tri-Loka-Nat. It was used for such State ceremonies as coronations.
* Chakrwat-Phaichayon Building was used by the kings for reviewing processions and military exerecises. King Prasat Thong founded this building in 1632 and called it Siriyasothorn Mahaphimanbanyoug which was afterwards changed in to Chakrawat Phaichayon.
* The Banyong-Ratanat Builiding (Thai Sra Building) was built on an islet in a lake in 1688 by the commeand of King Phetha Racha.
* The Banyong-Ratanat Building (Thai Sra Building) was built on an islet in a lake in 1688 by the command of King Phetha Racha.
* The Tri Muk Building is mentioned for the first time in the chronircle of the reign of King Boroma-racha ll where it states that this building was destroyed by fire in 1427. In 1908 King Chulalongkorn had the fortieth anniversary of his reign, he commanded Phay Boranrachathanindra to construct a three-portico pavilico on the foundation of what is understood to be the original Tri Muk Building.
* The Song Puen Building was used as the hall of audience since it was situated near his residence. The officials who had audience with the king had access to this building through the Maha phoka rat gate which was the nearest one.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet
Wat Phra Si Sanphet was situated on the premises of the royal palace which had been established in the reign of King Ramathibodi I (King U-Thong). In 1448 King Boroma-Tri-Loka-Nat dedicated the site of the palace to the construction of the temple. The important edifices in this temple are the three main stupas containing the ashes of King Boroma-Tri-Loka-Nat, King Boroma-Rachathirat lll and King Ramathibodi ll . It was a royal temple of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, used for such important royal ceremonies as swearing allegiance l and it also served as the royal family's private chapel and the place where the royal family's ashes were preserved. No monks resided here though they were occasionally invited for particular rites.
Wat Mahathat
Wat Mahathat was a grand temple, like wat Ratchaburana. The royal chronicle says that it was built in the reign of King Boroma-Rachathirat l in 1374 and completed in the reign of King Ramesuan. The main prang where the relic of the Lord Buddha was kept and found is originally 50 metres high. At present only the base can he seen as the top was broken down in 1911 in the reign of King Rama Vl.
Wat Ratchaburana
Wat Ratchaburana was built in the reign of King Boromrachthirat ll (Chao Sam Phya) in 1424 on the cremation site of his brothers, Prince Ai and Yi. They died of fighting for the throne on elephant's backs. Two chedi for the ashes of the two princes were built on the combat spot, which was between Wat Mahathat and Wat Ratchaburanan. At present only the bases can be seen. In the main prang, two crypts filled with golden royal treasure, such as Buddha images, and votive tablets, were foud. The finds are exhibited in the Chao Sam Phya National Museum, Ayutthaya.
Wat Phra Ram
King Ramesuan established Wat Phra Ram in 1369 on the cremation site of King Ramathibodi l, his father. At present, the temple is situated near Phra Ram pond which has originally called "Nong Sano". In the temple there remains a main prang surrounded by a cloister containing deteriorated stone Buddha images. The ubosot (ordination hall) is in north of the site.
Wihara Phra Mongkhon Bophit
Wihra Mongkhon Bophit is one of the largest Buddha lmage in the attitude of subduing. The image was probably built in the reign of King Chairacha in 1538 for Wat Chi Chieng. During the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767 Wihara Phra Mongkhon Bophit was fired. The right arm and the knot of the Buddha image were broken.
In the reign of king Rama V (1992), Phraya Boranratchathanin restored the broken parts of the image with mortar and the wihara was built to cover the image in 1956.
Phra Chedi Si Suriyothai
Phra Chedi Si Suriyothai is situated in Wat Suan Luang Sopsawan, the place where Queen Suriyothai, king Mahachakraphat's wife, was cremated. She died on an elephant's back, having saved her husband from danger in the war with Burma. The chedi and the temple were established in 1548 in memorial of the Queen's heroic deed.
Monuments in the area of Historical Park
The Royal Palace
when King Boroma-Tri-Loka-Nat ascended the throne in 1448, he built Wat Phra Sri Sanphet on the site of the old building, and erected a new residence nearer the river.
* Suriyat Amarindra Buliding was built by King Narai the Great on the site of the Bencharatana Building of King Borom-tri-loka-nat, near the compound wall by the river side.
* Sanphet-Prasat Building was built by King Boroma-Tri-Loka-Nat used for the reception in of guests of State.
* Wihara Somdet Building was constructed by the command of King Prasat Thong in 1643 to replace the Mangkalaphisek Building, which built by King Boroma-Tri-Loka-Nat. It was used for such State ceremonies as coronations.
* Chakrwat-Phaichayon Building was used by the kings for reviewing processions and military exerecises. King Prasat Thong founded this building in 1632 and called it Siriyasothorn Mahaphimanbanyoug which was afterwards changed in to Chakrawat Phaichayon.
* The Banyong-Ratanat Builiding (Thai Sra Building) was built on an islet in a lake in 1688 by the commeand of King Phetha Racha.
* The Banyong-Ratanat Building (Thai Sra Building) was built on an islet in a lake in 1688 by the command of King Phetha Racha.
* The Tri Muk Building is mentioned for the first time in the chronircle of the reign of King Boroma-racha ll where it states that this building was destroyed by fire in 1427. In 1908 King Chulalongkorn had the fortieth anniversary of his reign, he commanded Phay Boranrachathanindra to construct a three-portico pavilico on the foundation of what is understood to be the original Tri Muk Building.
* The Song Puen Building was used as the hall of audience since it was situated near his residence. The officials who had audience with the king had access to this building through the Maha phoka rat gate which was the nearest one.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet
Wat Phra Si Sanphet was situated on the premises of the royal palace which had been established in the reign of King Ramathibodi I (King U-Thong). In 1448 King Boroma-Tri-Loka-Nat dedicated the site of the palace to the construction of the temple. The important edifices in this temple are the three main stupas containing the ashes of King Boroma-Tri-Loka-Nat, King Boroma-Rachathirat lll and King Ramathibodi ll . It was a royal temple of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, used for such important royal ceremonies as swearing allegiance l and it also served as the royal family's private chapel and the place where the royal family's ashes were preserved. No monks resided here though they were occasionally invited for particular rites.
Wat Mahathat
Wat Mahathat was a grand temple, like wat Ratchaburana. The royal chronicle says that it was built in the reign of King Boroma-Rachathirat l in 1374 and completed in the reign of King Ramesuan. The main prang where the relic of the Lord Buddha was kept and found is originally 50 metres high. At present only the base can he seen as the top was broken down in 1911 in the reign of King Rama Vl.
Wat Ratchaburana
Wat Ratchaburana was built in the reign of King Boromrachthirat ll (Chao Sam Phya) in 1424 on the cremation site of his brothers, Prince Ai and Yi. They died of fighting for the throne on elephant's backs. Two chedi for the ashes of the two princes were built on the combat spot, which was between Wat Mahathat and Wat Ratchaburanan. At present only the bases can be seen. In the main prang, two crypts filled with golden royal treasure, such as Buddha images, and votive tablets, were foud. The finds are exhibited in the Chao Sam Phya National Museum, Ayutthaya.
Wat Phra Ram
King Ramesuan established Wat Phra Ram in 1369 on the cremation site of King Ramathibodi l, his father. At present, the temple is situated near Phra Ram pond which has originally called "Nong Sano". In the temple there remains a main prang surrounded by a cloister containing deteriorated stone Buddha images. The ubosot (ordination hall) is in north of the site.
Wihara Phra Mongkhon Bophit
Wihra Mongkhon Bophit is one of the largest Buddha lmage in the attitude of subduing. The image was probably built in the reign of King Chairacha in 1538 for Wat Chi Chieng. During the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767 Wihara Phra Mongkhon Bophit was fired. The right arm and the knot of the Buddha image were broken.
In the reign of king Rama V (1992), Phraya Boranratchathanin restored the broken parts of the image with mortar and the wihara was built to cover the image in 1956.
Phra Chedi Si Suriyothai
Phra Chedi Si Suriyothai is situated in Wat Suan Luang Sopsawan, the place where Queen Suriyothai, king Mahachakraphat's wife, was cremated. She died on an elephant's back, having saved her husband from danger in the war with Burma. The chedi and the temple were established in 1548 in memorial of the Queen's heroic deed.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Join Songkran festival in Thailand
Why you like it?
Songkran is a Thai traditional New Year which starts on April 13 every year and lasts for 3 days. Songkran festival on April 13 is Maha Songkran Day or the day to mark the end of the old year, April 14 is Wan Nao which is the day after and April 15 is Wan Thaloeng Sok which the New Year begins. At this time, people from the rural areas who are working in the city usually return home to celebrate the festival. Thus, when the time come, Bangkok temporarily turns into a deserted city.
Songkran is a Thai word which means "move" or "change place" as it is the day when the sun changes its position in the zodiac. It is also known as the "Water Festival" as people believe that water will wash away bad luck.
The Songkran tradition is recognized as a valuable custom for the Thai community, society and religions. The value for family is to provide the opportunity for family members to gather in order to express their respects to the elders by pouring scented water onto the hands of their parents and grandparents and to present them gifts including making merits to dedicate the result to their ancestors. The elders in return wish the youngsters good luck and prosperity.
The values for community is to provide the opportunity to create unity in the community such as to jointly acquire merits, to meet each other and to enjoy the entertaining events. And for the society value is to create concern upon environment with cooperation such as to clean houses, temples, public places and official buildings. Thais value the religion bye means of merits acquisition, offerings alms to monks, Dhamma Practice, listening to sermon and monks-bathing.
In the afternoon, after performing a bathing rite for Buddha images and the monks, the celebrants both young and old, joyfully splash water oon each other. The most-talked about celebration takes place in the northern province of Chiang Mai where Songkran is celebrated from April 13 to 15. During this period, people from all parts of the country flock there to enjoy the water festival, to watch the Miss Songkran Contest and the beautiful parades.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Travel along Khonkaen province
Attractions
Bung Kaen Nakhon - Located in the southern region of the city, this lake is a popular entertainment area with numerous restaraunts and other entertainment.
Chonnabot Silk District - 60 km southwest from Khon Kaen, an area famous for its silk, it also hosts a Thai Silk Exhibition Hall.
Khon Kaen Horse Racing Track - Located on Mittraphrap Road between Lotus and Makro, there is horse racing almost every weekend.
Khon Kaen National Museum - Located on the northside of the city, open daily, this regional museum contains artifacts from the Ban Chiang and Fa Daet Song Yang (Kalasin) excavation sites.
Khon Kaen University- Located just outside the northern part of the city, this is the largest university in northeast Thailand. To go to the Computer Engineering Department just click the link.
Pha Nok Khao - 125 km west of Khon Kaen, this unique mountain extends into Loei Province and provides a scenic view of the surrounding country side.
Phra That Kham Kaen - 30 km northeast of Khon Kaen, this pagoda was built as the legend goes after two revered monks spent the night there and noticed a dead tree, upon there return later the tamarind tree had flowered. The pagoda was built over this hardwood log (kham kaen) and the city's (Khon Kaen) name evolved from this.
Phu Kao - Phu Phan Kham National Park - 56 km northwest of Khon Kaen, this national park offers guesthouses, trekking, and camping.
Phu Wiang National Park - 90 km northwest of Khon Kaen, the park has a scenic view of the surrounding mountains, the valley, caves, and waterfalls. The park contains several archaeological sites and dinosaur fossils.
Tortoise Village - 50 km south of Khon Kaen in Mancha Khiri District, approximately 2,000 tortoises reside in the main 4 rai Shrine and the surrounding area. Most villagers do not have walls or fences to impede the touroises daily ritual of scavenging for food.
Ubolrat Dam - 50 km northwest of Khon Kaen, this is the largest dam in the northeast. The east side has the golf course and the west side has a swimming area.
Wat Jien Bung Kaen Nakhon - is located on the east side of Bung Kaen Nakhon Lake. This temple is very popular on Chinese holidays.
Wat Nongwang - is located south of the city on Klangmuang Road. A good view of Khon Kaen city and Bung Kaen Nakhon Lake can be seen from the balconies surrounding the outside of the Temple.
Wat Wutharam - is located on Darun Samran Road just south of the train station. Many people as part of there merit making buy fish at the local market and set them free in the small lake.
Bung Kaen Nakhon - Located in the southern region of the city, this lake is a popular entertainment area with numerous restaraunts and other entertainment.
Chonnabot Silk District - 60 km southwest from Khon Kaen, an area famous for its silk, it also hosts a Thai Silk Exhibition Hall.
Khon Kaen Horse Racing Track - Located on Mittraphrap Road between Lotus and Makro, there is horse racing almost every weekend.
Khon Kaen National Museum - Located on the northside of the city, open daily, this regional museum contains artifacts from the Ban Chiang and Fa Daet Song Yang (Kalasin) excavation sites.
Khon Kaen University- Located just outside the northern part of the city, this is the largest university in northeast Thailand. To go to the Computer Engineering Department just click the link.
Pha Nok Khao - 125 km west of Khon Kaen, this unique mountain extends into Loei Province and provides a scenic view of the surrounding country side.
Phra That Kham Kaen - 30 km northeast of Khon Kaen, this pagoda was built as the legend goes after two revered monks spent the night there and noticed a dead tree, upon there return later the tamarind tree had flowered. The pagoda was built over this hardwood log (kham kaen) and the city's (Khon Kaen) name evolved from this.
Phu Kao - Phu Phan Kham National Park - 56 km northwest of Khon Kaen, this national park offers guesthouses, trekking, and camping.
Phu Wiang National Park - 90 km northwest of Khon Kaen, the park has a scenic view of the surrounding mountains, the valley, caves, and waterfalls. The park contains several archaeological sites and dinosaur fossils.
Tortoise Village - 50 km south of Khon Kaen in Mancha Khiri District, approximately 2,000 tortoises reside in the main 4 rai Shrine and the surrounding area. Most villagers do not have walls or fences to impede the touroises daily ritual of scavenging for food.
Ubolrat Dam - 50 km northwest of Khon Kaen, this is the largest dam in the northeast. The east side has the golf course and the west side has a swimming area.
Wat Jien Bung Kaen Nakhon - is located on the east side of Bung Kaen Nakhon Lake. This temple is very popular on Chinese holidays.
Wat Nongwang - is located south of the city on Klangmuang Road. A good view of Khon Kaen city and Bung Kaen Nakhon Lake can be seen from the balconies surrounding the outside of the Temple.
Wat Wutharam - is located on Darun Samran Road just south of the train station. Many people as part of there merit making buy fish at the local market and set them free in the small lake.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Cool!!! Hat-Yai of Songkla
I like hatyai very much and recommend you to ...
See
Chinese Temples - notably the Kuan Im temple up on the hill behind Hat Yai Municipal Park.
The reclining Buddha at Wat Hat Yai Nai.
Tone Nga Chang Waterfall.
Songkhla Zoo
Ko Yo
Do
Visa Run - If you need to extend your stay in Thailand another 30 days, you can cross the border at Dannok, near Sadao. Getting there from the airport is easy and takes about 2 hours. From the airport walk straight out into the parking lot to the parking lot ring road. You can wait here for a light blue songthaew to take you into town and get dropped off at The Plaza for 13 baht. The ride takes about 20-30 minutes. You can also take an airport taxi into town. At The Plaza, you can find a van waiting just across from the TOT office, which makes regular trips to Dannok. If you can't find it, just say "Sadao" or "Dannok" to people till they point you the right way. The trip is 50 baht, and vans leave once they are full. The trip should take about 1 hour 30 minutes. It will drop you off near the border at Dannok and you can just walk to exit Thailand. You will be approached by motorcycle drivers who will offer to take you to the Malaysian side. Walking takes about 10 minutes, so it could be worth it to pay 20 baht each way if you are in a hurry. If you have time, a stop at the duty free shop is worthwhile. Minivans returning to Hat Yai depart from outside the 7-Eleven store in Dannok.
Thai Massage - No trip to Thailand would be complete without a Thai massage and Hat Yai is one of the places to get them. One good place would be Hai Yai Central Hotel. The rooms are nicely decorated and provide a soothing environment to go with a good massage.
Buy
Lee Garden Plaza - The most popular mall for Thai teenagers. Restaurants include Sizzler, Swensens, McDonalds and Fuji among others. Shops inside sell books, clothes, mobile phones and souvenirs. There is a multiplex cinema and a games complex which also includes Karaoke booths.
Odean Shopping Mall - Mostly clothes.
Diana Shopping Mall - Clothes, mobile phones, restaurants and a bowling alley.
Tesco Lotus - Located near the Prince of Songkhla University, a large supermarket that sells food, clothes, household items and lots more. There are also a number of restaurants and smaller shops just outside the main supermarket.
Carrefour - Very similar to Tesco Lotus.
Central Department Store - Probably Hat Yai's most upmarket store. Clothes, cosmetics, books, household goods and there is a TOPS food supermarket in the basement.
Eat
Although not in the same league as Bangkok, there are a lot of different food options on offer in Hat Yai. Typical Thai street food is abundant almost everywhere. Big, international chain restaurants have branches in town offering Japanese and Western food. Ethnic Chinese from Malaysia and Singapore make up the bulk of Hat Yai's tourists so many restaurants and hotels cater primarily for them. Just opposite Lee Gardens (next to the Regency Hotel) you will see a restaurant which spit-roasts suckling pigs every day. Large, open-air seafood restaurants are also popular with Chinese visitors and the quality of seafood available in Hat Yai is good. Behind Regency Hotel and Lee Garden Hotel is a Vermicillin Store with a Teochew speaking lady boss. The store opens from 10pm-6am. Its beside the street Thanon Duangchan. For those who likes to eat pork ribs soup or "Bak Kut Tea", you can find this place called "YA LUN ROU KU CHA" with telephone no. 01-6082829 There is also a large resident Muslim population and some visitors from Malaysia are also Muslim so finding Halal food isn't a problem. Across the street from Lee Garden hotel there are a couple of Muslim restaurants, Hamid restaurant is not too bad. Nice clean and good food. There are several small ones nearby. Certain Chinese are vegetarian and the town has a good selection of small vegetarian restaurants that offer tofu and soy meat substitutes.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Krabi, Life of nature
This is information of Krabi, a famous province in Thailand
Attractions
The popular Phi Phi Islands consists of 2 separate islands famed for their spectacular landscapes, beautiful beaches and spectacular island reefs teeming with variety of coral fishes. Ideal place to enjoy scuba diving. Its paradise-like appearance can best be seen in the movie, The Beach, where most of the filming occurred. Koh Lanta Yai is a predominantly Muslim fishing island where many resorts have recently sprouted up. The island is covered with forested hills sweeping down to numerous sandy bays on the western side. A good alternative for those seeking peace and quiet.
On a smaller scale, an island worth visiting, but with fewer tourists, is Koh Hong (Room Island), an island encircled on 3 sides by towering limestone formations. The cove inside, with its crystal clear waters and pristine beach, inspires images of a deserted island. Closer to the mainland are Koh Poda and Koh Hua Khwan (Chicken Island), ideal spots for snorkeling and playing in the waters and beaches.
Mountaineers and rock climbing fanatics will love the climbing trails at Railei Bay. With a cliff wall dotted with deep niches and stalactite hauls, the runs offer various levels of difficulty satisfying to challenge novice to experts. But the main attractions are the sun, scenery and the ambience. Nowhere else can you start climbing straight from the beach, with the promise of a cooling dip into the shimmering turquoise water after mastering a difficult route.
Slightly north of town is Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple) named after a rock formation resembling a tiger paw. Regarded as one of the most renowned forest temples in the south, the main hall was built inside the cave, providing a peaceful environment for practicing meditation. A circular path in the nearby forest offers a pleasant walk and a 300-meters high staircase leads to a large Buddha image and Buddha footprint perched atop the cliff. Great view of the province.
Regarded as the symbol of Krabi, the Khao Khanap Nam (Hill Beside the Water) rises high above the waters before the city. A long tail boat will quickly transport you to the site, where one has to climb a staircase to see caves with stalactites and stalagmites. Highly interesting archaeological remains were discovered here, along with some human remains believed to be earlier immigrants.
Aside from frolicking in the sun and playing in the waters, most sport enthusiasts enjoy the diverse marine surroundings by partaking in sea kayaking. The most beautiful bay of mangrove forests in Thailand is at Ao Thalan (Thalan Bay). Towering karst formations and lovely offshore islands surrounding the bay creates complex channels for maneuvering your kayaks.
Not far from town is the Noppharat Thara Beach, a scenic, tranquil beach lined with soft pine trees and extending for several kilometers. The beach has a relatively flat slope, being safe enough for children to play in. At low tide, you can walk to the rocky island located one kilometer away from the beach.
Long ago, a fresh water marsh was densely populated mainly by pond snails, which multiplied at such great rates that the dead formed a floor for the living. Over eons, the repeated process created a layer of fossils about 40 cm thick. Scientific tests have proven that the fossils at the Fossil Shell Beach are about 40 million years old.
A 12-km bumpy ride from Khlong Thom District leads to a hot spring in the forest. Walk further and discover the rewarding Tung Tieo Forest Trails. Posted signs guide you through the protected woodlands with ample opportunities for dips in the emerald pools along the trails.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Samui Island
Now I want to tell you a famous island.
Koh Samui is an island of natural beauty and charm, a place where you can have a wonderful holiday. Blue-sky days and a nice ocean breeze are the norm. Today tourist from the whole world go to this paradise. It´s located in the Gulf of Siam and surrounded by over sixty other Islands.
Sunbath or swim all day is great; however, when you get bored there is hundreds of great to do and good places to go around. There are several restaurants and bars or choose to spend your time in couple of gyms. You´ll find a great Thaiboxing camp also. The nearby islands Koh Phangan (Fullmoon Party), Koh Tao Koh Nangyuan, Koh Tan (Diving) and Koh Matsum (Pearl Farm) offer more local attractions worthwhile investigating if you feel a little adventurous.
It is Surat Thani's major tourist attraction. The island has numerous lovely beaches and bays. It is almost literally an island of coconuts and forested hills, and is fast be coming a resort of international stature. Samui's best beaches line the northern and eastern coasts, the most popular being Chaweng and Lamai where, generally, the most attractive accommodation is found. Besides beaches, other island attractions include the Hin Lat and Na Muang waterfalls the phallic rock formations at the southern end of Lamai Bay; a massive seated Buddha inage of Fan isle and Na Thon, the island's major seafront settlement where shops, restaurants, tour agencies and hotels are located.
Temple Samui not only offers beaches and coconuts, but is also rich in traditions and cultures. There are several temples, or wat, in Samui. Some of these vary in style and size. The most famous in Samui is the Big Buddha.
Waterfalls There are several waterfalls you can discover on the island. There are 3 major waterfalls which can be easily accessed and others which are more difficult to find.
National Park Ang Tong is a fascinating group of islands in the north of Samui rising from the sea as dramatic walls of rock. Besides small caves and beaches you will find some strange formations nature has formed. One island has a mysterious sink hole, completely enclosed by walls of rock, in its center.
Animals Discover the world of exotic wildlife. See how animals signal each other... and how intelligent they are. The animal show gives audiences a rare opportunity to witness animal behavior in their habitat.
Viewpoints & others Fascinating and breath-taking views over Samui and the surroundings.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Chiangmai Info
Thailand, Chiang Mai Guide
Chiang Mai ,the old capital city of Lan Na Kingdom.
One of the most beautiful scenery city :hills,moutains stream ,
lakes ,fields and waterfalls.Mysteries are in the valleys and
moutains waiting for your discovery.Shopping is a fun experience.
All of these make ChiangMai popular with visitors.
Chiang Mai ,the old capital city of Lan Na Kingdom.
One of the most beautiful scenery city :hills,moutains stream ,
lakes ,fields and waterfalls.Mysteries are in the valleys and
moutains waiting for your discovery.Shopping is a fun experience.
All of these make ChiangMai popular with visitors.
Festivals in Chiang Mai
The Chiang Mai flower festival Flowers in Chiang Mai are at their best before the end of the cool season when this festival is held. This falls on the first weekend of February. The center of the festival is the parade held in the morning of Saturday. Floats decorated with flowers illustrate the theme chosen for the year. The beauty queens surrounded by flowers make a magical sight. The flower beds of the public gardens are bathed in colour and special displays are maintained till the end of Sunday. Besides the flowers beauty contests are held and the Thai beauty participants will sit atop of the floats as they pass by. It is also usual to have a beauty contest for the visiting tourists as well.
2008 flower festival dates – Chiang Mai: 1st, 2nd & 3rd Feb 2008
Songkran – Chiang Mai Without a doubt Chiang Mai is the place to be during the Thai Songkran celebrations. Songkran in Chiang Mai is celebrated with so much more gusto here then in other locations around Thailand. The streets especially around the old moat area turn into a gridlocked water throwing frenzy which lasts many days. The festival marks the start of the Thai new (lunar) new year. There is a songkran procession through the streets starting from Narawat Bridge to Pra Singh temple in the old city. Apart from the water throwing this is a time for Thai merit making at the temples and house cleaning in preparation for the new year.
2008 Songkran Dates – Chiang Mai: For 2008 Songkran will fall on the 13-15 April. In Chiang Mai the water throwing festivities will last many days over this period probably from the 11th to 16th. (Dates to be confirmed)
Loi Krathong – Chiang MaiLoi Krathong is the most colourful festival of the year. It takes place over three days of the full moon of the twelfth lunar month which usually falls in November. People generally believe that by releasing floats and balloons they get rid of bad luck and give thanks to the water and heavenly elements. For the three nights of the festival people release small floats known as Krathongs with offerings that include incense, candles, flowers and money into the rivers and lakes.. The River Ping becomes a stream of lights floating gently with the current. Small paper hot air balloons rise like lanterns high into the sky complementing the floats drifting o¬n the waters. Fireworks are let off everywhere particularly on the banks of the Ping River and there is a parade each night in Chiang Mai.
2007 Loi Kratong dates – Chiang Mai: 23 Nov 2007 - 24 Nov 2007
Bo Sang Umbrella FestivalBo Sang Umbrella & Sankampang Handicrafts Festival take place 20th-22nd January at Ban Bo Sang, Sankampang. The festival is in the form of a "street fair" in which the central road of the village is used, with stores on both sides. Stores are decorated in Lanna style, most with the well-known umbrellas, as well as with traditional lanterns. In addition there are contests, exhibitions, cultural performances, local entertainment, and assorted shows day and night. There is a grand procession decorated with umbrellas and local products, a variety of handicrafts for sale, northern-style kantoke meals, and the Miss Bo Sang pageant.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Thursday, January 31, 2008
About Pattaya
Let's go to Pattaya
Pattaya is a popular resort on the North Gulf Coast of Eastern Thailand, 150 km south-east of Bangkok. Most famous for its go-go and beer bars, it's also one of Thailand's best locations for all manner of sports and activities. Some of the beaches are lacklustre (by Thailand's high standards) and rampant over-development has long since destroyed any natural charms it once had, but its plethora of hotels and guest houses and convenient location with quick and easy access from the capital make it a popular weekend getaway. Catering for over 5 million tourists yearly, Pattaya is also able to offer an excellent range of eating choices and a wide variety of things to do and see.
Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical GardenNong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden represents a concerted effort to manage plant species in cultivation. The garden and other participating institutions work together to preserve long-term genetic diversity in cultivated populations as well as propagate highly endangered species. Moreover, the Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical garden supports the long-term field efforts and comprehensive ex situ conservation programs world wide.
Underwater World Pattaya At Underwater World Pattaya, visitors are taken on a ‘voyage to the bottom of the sea' , which begins at the sandy beaches and shallow rock pools at the water's edge. From here, they start their descent, passing brightly colored corals and all kinds of exotic ocean-dwellers along the way. Finally they come to a spectacular 100 meter-long tunnel with acrylic windows, home to great shoals of fish, prowling predators and a host of other creatures that inhabit the ocean depths.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Travel around Phuket
Information for people who would like come to Phuket
I like and love world class diving in the Andaman Sea, golf at world-standard championship courses or exciting eco-adventures in tropical forests, Phuket is a place to extend your horizons. Take an exhilarating speedboat trip to the surrounding islands, or enjoy a serene cruise around mystical Phang Nga Bay.
Parents and children, beach bums and barflies, newlyweds and 90-year-olds: Phuket has everything you’re looking for. It caters to all tastes, every budget, and promises to deliver a smile-filled holiday in the exotic surrounds of one of the planet’s most exciting island getaways.
Having shed its seedy image of old, Patong Beach is a fully fledged bustling holiday resort. Every year it gets more and more popular with hordes coming to soak up the sun, scenery and often beer. Let us tell you all you need to know and much much more.
For many the sun, the beach and partying goes hand in hand. Phuket's reputation as a partying hotspot is well deserved with an international crowd of revelers but it's not all loud music and dancing - bars, live bands and jazz features . I tell you don't miss the Phuket Fantasea show.
National parks with hidden lagoons, beautiful tropical islands and elephant safaris are a few examples.
Now I think you can plan and book your tours before you leave home.
Bangkok; City of life.
about Bangkok city
Bangkok just gets better and better, and certainly lives up to its reputation as a hot spot in Southeast Asia. Say goodbye to traffic jams - thanks to the city's modern skytrain and underground systems that cover a large area.
And I will tell you Bangkok basic information now!
There are no major health risks in Thailand that you wouldn't be able to prevent. Bangkok is a tropical city, so it's pretty warm and humid throughout the year. In fact, people often jokingly say Thailand has only three seasons: hot, hotter and hottest! The hottest season is in April and May, when temperatures soar deep into the 30's.
Bangkok just gets better and better, and certainly lives up to its reputation as a hot spot in Southeast Asia. Say goodbye to traffic jams - thanks to the city's modern skytrain and underground systems that cover a large area.
And I will tell you Bangkok basic information now!
There are no major health risks in Thailand that you wouldn't be able to prevent. Bangkok is a tropical city, so it's pretty warm and humid throughout the year. In fact, people often jokingly say Thailand has only three seasons: hot, hotter and hottest! The hottest season is in April and May, when temperatures soar deep into the 30's.
Tour with thai people in Bangkok
A day or two is not enough to sample the best of what Bangkok has to offer. Thailand's capital now for nearly 300 years, Bangkok has many sights and attractions that represent the country's rich historical and cultural heritage.
You should discover the secrets of Thai cuisine. And learn the Thai word for delicious: 'Aroi!'
Visiting Thailand's temples and palaces is an awe-inspiring experience.
One Day in Bangkok with Amazing Thailand slogan
Wake up in Bangkok and know that anything is possible. My perfect day would begin with a walk down the busy streets to select the best egg noodle soup with wontons and red pork, a delicious, ubiquitous dish and an excellent hangover cure. A trip down the river is next on the cards, a wonderful breezy way to see the city and its monuments without choking to death. A stop at a riverside restaurant is always scenic and delicious - I'd probably seek out some soft-shelled crab with glass noodles at In Love restaurant at Thewet pier. Jumping off the ferry at Saphan Taksin, I would skytrain it up to Siam for some shopping, making sure there's time at the end of the day for a calming swim, a Thai massage and a bag of mangosteens. Bangkok is all about alternating the pampering with the hard yards, the chic heights with the seething streets. An ideal evening, therefore, involves somewhere very fancy for drinks, like sunset at Vertigo (the rooftop bar at the Banyan Tree Hotel) and then local street food - say spicy salad and sticky rice, red curry squid and morning glory - on plastic chairs in the warping heat. The car park on the corner of Ratchadamri Road and Soi Sarasin, near Lumphini park, is great, as are many places in the Samsen sois in Banglamphu. Alternatively, I'd go for cold beer and salty beans at the little makeshift bars that line the Chatuchak weekend market (wonderful post-shopping ambience as the market is closing) followed by an inner-city restaurant. Dinner cruises run by the fancy hotels are super-touristy but a great treat for visitors. If there's a night out on the cards I would begin it with G&T's at Cheap Charlie's bar on Sukhumvit Soi 11 or Admakers (great live music) on Soi Lang Suan, and let the random and glorious energy of the city decide the rest. A midnight snack and a walk down the human zoo of Khao San Road is always entertaining, especially when the bars close and the messy hordes spill into the street.
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